If you regularly rub your eyes, or if you have eye irritation you may suffer from dry eye. This common condition affects many adults and is often described as a feeling of sand in your eyes. If this discomfort becomes a chronic issue, an optometrist can guide you to the right treatment. Here are some common questions that patients often ask their eye doctor about dry eye.

Common Questions About Dry Eye

What is dry eye?

Dry eye is a common syndrome in which the eye's surface fails to have proper moisture and lubrication. Typical symptoms of this condition include a burning sensation, soreness, itchiness, dryness, aching, and fatigue of the eyes. Redness, light sensitivity, and blurred vision can also be symptoms of dry eye. 

What causes dry eye?

Your eyes create tears to flood them with fluid and nutrients that keep them clear of dirt, debris, and microorganisms that can create infections. When your eyes produce an inadequate quantity or quality of tears, you cannot keep them lubricated and free of particles. This issue can stem from a variety of problems: aging, excessive computer use, pollution, medications, past eye surgeries, and other related medical conditions.

When should I see an optometrist?

Generally, you should see an optometrist annually to check the health of your eyes. If your dry eye symptoms cause weekly discomfort, or you find yourself regularly using eye drops, you should check in with an Optometrist to pursue alternative treatments for your dry eye. 

How does an optometrist diagnose and treat this condition?

There are a variety of ways to observe your eye's tear production. An eye doctor may use special blotting strips, which absorb tears when placed on your lower eyelid. Other instruments can measure how wet your eyes get with every blink. Some tests can measure how quickly tears evaporate.

Mild cases of dry eye can be treated with OTC drops, prescription drops, and vitamins. More severe cases can involve punctal plugs that prevent tears from draining away from the eye. Another option includes a procedure that clears any blockages from the glands in your eyelids to help them function better. 

Can I wear contacts with dry eye?

Yes, you can. Discuss with eye care professional about the new contact lenses technologies that are available for patients dealing with dye eyes.

In Honolulu, HI, residents trust the practice of Nelson O. Yoshioka, Jr., O.D. and Cheryl C. Niitani, O.D. and Evan Tanaka, O.D. with the long-term health of their sight. This team of optometrists uses innovative expertise and state-of-the-art equipment to provide top-quality eye care services to their patients. From eye exams to glasses prescriptions, treatment of eye conditions, and more, they will help promote the health of your eyesight for years to come. For more information and to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (808) 734-7050 to reach the Honolulu office or (808) 455-3333 for Pearl City.